Denton County reports 2nd West Nile Virus death, additional cases

A second person in Denton County has died this year from the West Nile virus, officials said Friday.
County officials also reported three other cases of the virus among residents in Trophy Club, Flower Mound and the southeast area of unincorporated Denton County.
The person who died lived in Sanger, and county officials said they would not be releasing any additional information about the patient for their confidentiality. The county’s first death was reported in August and that person lived in northwest unincorporated Denton County.
There have been 14 cases this year in the county, according to a news release from Denton County Public Health. This year, Dallas County has recorded 29 cases and one death as of Sept. 20. Last month, Tarrant County reported seeing 28 cases and a death.
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People should take steps to “safeguard” themselves and their community from mosquito-borne diseases, said Juan Rodriguez, assistant director and chief epidemiologist at Denton County Public Health.
“We urge community members to continue to be proactive in reducing mosquito breeding sites and using repellents,” Rodriguez said in a written statement.
Preventative measures include draining standing water in yards and neighborhoods to remove mosquito breeding sites. Mosquitos only need 1 to 2 teaspoons of standing water to breed, according to the county health department’s website, which provides a map of positive mosquito tests and other information.
Other tips include limiting outside activity around dawn and dusk, dressing in long sleeves and pants when outside and using EPA-registered insect repellent.
Symptoms of the virus include high fever, severe headache, disorientation or neck stiffness. Officials say anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact a health care provider.